When can unemployment be filed with Washington ESD - timing requirements?

You can file your initial claim the Sunday of the week you become unemployed or have your hours reduced. Don't wait - Washington ESD recommends filing as soon as you're eligible because there's a waiting week before benefits start.

Just to clarify - you file for the week you become unemployed, not before. So if you're working Monday through Friday of week 1, you file on Sunday of week 2. The system won't let you file for weeks you're still employed.

I've been trying to get through to Washington ESD for weeks about my claim timing issues. Their phone lines are always busy and I keep getting disconnected. Has anyone found a way to actually talk to someone there?

IMPORTANT: Don't file too early! I made this mistake and filed while I was still technically employed (even though I knew I was getting laid off). Washington ESD rejected my claim and I had to wait even longer. Only file after your employment actually ends.

Also remember that Washington ESD processes claims differently depending on when you file. Weekend filings get processed Monday, so there's no real advantage to filing on a specific day of the week.

Don't forget about the one week waiting period. Even if you file immediately, your first payable week is the second week of unemployment. Plan your finances accordingly.

Quick question - what if you're getting laid off but they're giving you severance pay? Do you wait until the severance runs out to file?

I filed my claim 3 weeks ago and it's still pending in adjudication. Anyone know how long this usually takes? I'm getting really worried about my bills.

One more thing - make sure you're available to work when you file. If you're going on vacation right after getting laid off, it might affect your claim. Washington ESD requires you to be able and available.

Does anyone know if the timing is different for part-time workers? I'm having my hours cut to almost nothing but not completely laid off.

Just want to add - keep track of your filing date! Washington ESD uses that date for determining your benefit year and when you can file again if needed. It's important for their records.

Anyone else think the Washington ESD system is confusing? I had to call them three times just to understand when I could file. The website isn't very clear about timing.

For anyone reading this - document everything! Write down when you file, what you report, and any correspondence with Washington ESD. It helps if there are issues later.

Quick tip - have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employer information ready before you start filing. It'll make the process go much faster.

Remember that Washington ESD has specific hours when you can file online. I think it's 6 AM to 10 PM most days. Don't try to file in the middle of the night and get frustrated when it doesn't work.

Last thing - if you're filing near a holiday weekend, expect delays in processing. Washington ESD doesn't process claims on state holidays so plan accordingly.